Decontamination device and method using ultrasonic cavitation

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for decontaminating substantially enclosed environments by using ultrasonic cavitation of a cleaning fluid to produce a low pressure, low air flow mist that can be activated by a nonthermal plasma actuator to create a cloud of activated hydroxyl species with the capacity to decontaminate articles, open surfaces or substantially enclosed spaces of pathogens, including bacteria, and other pathogenic microorganisms. An automated system and related non-transitory computer medium are also disclosed.

This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/858,446, filed Dec. 29, 2017. The entirety of the aforementionedapplications is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present application relates generally to an apparatus and method fordecontaminating articles, enclosed spaces, and unenclosed spaces and,more particularly, to microbiological decontamination of such locations.

BACKGROUND

Microbiological species are widely distributed in our environment. Mostmicrobiological species are of little concern, because they do notdamage other living organisms. However, other microbiological speciesmay infect man or animals and cause them harm. The removing or renderingineffective of injurious microbiological organisms has long been ofinterest. Drugs and medical devices are sterilized and packaged insterile containers. Medical environments such as operating rooms, wards,and examination rooms are decontaminated by various cleaning proceduresso that injurious microbiological organisms cannot spread from onepatient to another.

Many available technologies for controlling microbiological organismsare of limited value in the public health circumstances of biologicalwarfare and bioterrorism. Furthermore, current technologies addressingthese instances are limited in their effectiveness in tightly enclosedenvironments. A new approach is needed that is more readily usable intightly enclosed environments, as well as retaining the ability for useon open surfaces in large spaces, with enhanced kill, and simplermaintenance of machinery. The present invention fulfills this need, andfurther provides related advantages.

SUMMARY

An aspect of the application is directed to a method for decontaminatingan article, surface, or substantially enclosed space, comprising thesteps of: shearing a cleaning fluid into a mist comprising aerosoldroplets accumulating in a top chamber portion of a substantially closedchamber comprising a funnel shaped top chamber portion, a bottom chamberportion, a side chamber portion and an interior chamber portion, whereinthe cleaning fluid is sheared by ultrasonic cavitation; subjecting themist to a nonthermal plasma actuator to form plasma activated ionicparticles; and contacting the article, surface, or substantiallyenclosed space to the plasma activated ionic particles.

One other aspect of the application is directed to a method fordecontaminating an article or substantially enclosed space, comprisingthe steps of: shearing a cleaning fluid into a mist comprising aerosoldroplets by cavitating the cleaning fluid using an ultrasonic cavitatorsubmerged in a substantially closed chamber comprising the cleaningfluid; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasma actuator in an outlettube extending from an opening in a top chamber portion of thesubstantially closed chamber, wherein the outlet tube comprises a hollowlumen with a distal opening above the top chamber portion for expellingthe aerosol droplets to form plasma activated ionic particles; andcontacting the article or substantially enclosed space to the plasmaactivated ionic particles.

Another aspect of the application is directed to a decontaminationapparatus comprising: a substantially closed chamber comprising a funnelshaped top chamber portion, a bottom chamber portion, a side chamberportion and an interior chamber portion; an ultrasonic cavitatorcomprising a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end beingconnected to the bottom chamber portion, the distal end extending intochamber interior, the cavitator comprising a piezoelectric transducer tovibrate a material at a resonant frequency, thereby generating aplurality of sheared fluid particles; an inlet tube feeding into theside chamber portion, the tube configured so that a cleaning fluid canpassively lie in the bottom chamber portion and submerge the distal endof the ultrasonic cavitator so that the sheared fluid particles flowupward through the cleaning fluid and across the liquid-air interface,forming a mist of aerosol droplets accumulating in the top chamberportion; an outlet tube extending from an opening in the top chamberportion, the outlet tube comprising a hollow lumen with a distal openingabove the top chamber portion for expelling the aerosol droplets; and anonthermal plasma actuator comprising one or more electrodes adjacent tothe distal opening, the electrodes configured to generate a high voltagearc activating the aerosol droplets to form plasma activated ionicparticles for decontaminating an article, surface, or substantiallyclosed space.

A further aspect of the application is a method for decontaminating anarticle or substantially enclosed space, comprising the steps of:submerging an ultrasonic cavitator in a reservoir of a cleaning fluid;cavitating the cleaning fluid with ultrasonic vibrations produced by theultrasonic cavitator; generating a mist comprising aerosol droplets,wherein the mist is generated from the cleaning fluid while the cleaningfluid is being cavitated; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasmaactuator to form plasma activated ionic particles; and contacting theplasma activated ionic particles to a pathogen.

One other aspect of the application is a method for decontaminating anarticle or substantially enclosed space, comprising the steps of:providing a reservoir of a cleaning fluid; cavitating the reservoir ofcleaning fluid by applying force to the cleaning fluid; generating amist comprising aerosol droplets, wherein the mist is generated from thecleaning fluid while the cleaning fluid is subject to cavitation byforce; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasma actuator to formplasma activated ionic particles; and contacting the plasma activatedionic particles to a pathogen.

An additional aspect of the application is an apparatus fordecontaminating an article or substantially enclosed space, comprising:a reservoir of cleaning fluid; an ultrasonic cavitator, wherein theultrasonic cavitator is submerged in the reservoir; a nonthermal plasmaactuator, wherein the actuator activates a mist generated from thereservoir; a pathway that connects the nonthermal plasma activator tothe reservoir; an outer tube, wherein the outer tube connects thenonthermal actuator to the external atmosphere; and wherein a mistgenerated from the reservoir can pass through the funnel to theactuator, and further wherein after the mist is activated by theactuator the mist can pass through the outer tube to the externalatmosphere.

A further aspect of the application is a method for decontaminating asubstantially enclosed space, comprising the steps of: sensing apresence of an airborne or surface pathogen in the atmosphere of asubstantially enclosed space using a sensor; communicating the presenceof the airborne or surface pathogen from the sensor to a networkedcomputer processor; communicating from the networked computer processorto a decontamination apparatus that an airborne pathogen is present inthe substantially enclosed space; activating a decontamination cycle ofthe decontamination apparatus, wherein the decontamination cyclecomprises the steps of: providing a reservoir of a cleaning fluid;cavitating the reservoir of cleaning fluid by applying force to thecleaning fluid; generating a mist comprising aerosol droplets, whereinthe mist is generated from the cleaning fluid while the cleaning fluidis subject to cavitation by force; subjecting the mist to a nonthermalplasma actuator to form plasma activated ionic particles; and contactingthe plasma activated ionic particles to the airborne pathogen. Incertain embodiments, the surface is sampled either manually or via anautomated system for non-airborne pathogens.

An additional aspect of the application is a system for decontaminatinga substantially enclosed space, comprising: a sensor for airborne orsurface pathogens, wherein the sensor is in networked communication witha computer processor; a computer processor, wherein the computerprocessor is in networked communication with the sensor and adecontamination apparatus; a decontamination apparatus, wherein thedecontamination apparatus is in networked communication with thecomputer processor, and further wherein the decontamination apparatuscomprises: a reservoir of cleaning fluid; an ultrasonic cavitator,wherein the ultrasonic cavitator is submerged in the reservoir; anonthermal plasma actuator, wherein the actuator activates a mistgenerated from the reservoir; a pathway that connects the nonthermalplasma activator to the reservoir; an outer tube, wherein the outer tubeconnects the nonthermal actuator to the external atmosphere; and whereina mist generated from the reservoir can pass through the funnel to theactuator, and further wherein after the mist is activated by theactuator the mist can pass through the outer tube to the externalatmosphere.

A still further aspect of the application is a non-transitory computerreadable medium providing instructions for repeating decontaminationcycles of a decontamination apparatus, the instructions comprising:sensing a presence of a pathogen in a substantially enclosed space;communicating the presence of the pathogen to a computer database;identifying the pathogen sensed in the substantially enclosed spaceusing the computer database; selecting a program of decontaminationcycles from the computer database based on the identity of the pathogen;communication the selected program to a decontamination apparatus,wherein the decontamination apparatus is networked to automaticallyfollow the program; performing the decontamination cycles according tothe program, wherein each decontamination cycle comprises the steps of:providing a reservoir of a cleaning fluid; cavitating the reservoir ofcleaning fluid by applying force to the cleaning fluid; generating amist comprising aerosol droplets, wherein the mist is generated from thecleaning fluid while the cleaning fluid is subject to cavitation byforce; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasma actuator to formplasma activated ionic particles; and contacting the plasma activatedionic particles to the airborne pathogen.

A further aspect of the application is a method comprising the step ofexposing the substantially enclosed space to a sterilant gas comprisingchlorine dioxide, ethylene oxide, ozone, propylene oxide, nitrogendioxide, formaldehyde or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, thecleaning fluid comprises hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of up toabout 9%. In particular embodiments, the cleaning fluid compriseshydrogen peroxide at a concentration of about 7.8%. In some embodiments,the article or substantially closed space is exposed to the plasmaactivated ionic particles in an amount sufficient to provide greaterthan 6-log¹⁰ reduction of viable bacteria, viable bacterial spores, orviable virus particles relative to untreated controls. In particularembodiments, the article, surface, or substantially closed space isexposed to the plasma activated ionic particles in an amount sufficientto provide greater than 7-log¹⁰ killing of bacteria, bacterial spores,or virus particles relative to untreated controls. In other embodiments,the article, surface, or substantially closed space is exposed to theplasma activated ionic particles in an amount sufficient to providegreater than 8-log¹⁰ killing of bacteria, bacterial spores, or virusparticles relative to untreated controls. In another embodiment, thearticle, surface, or substantially closed space is exposed to the plasmaactivated ionic particles in an amount sufficient to provide greaterthan 9-log¹⁰ killing of bacteria, bacterial spores, or virus particles,molds, allergens, parasites, relative to untreated controls.

Another aspect of the application is a decontamination apparatuscomprising: a substantially closed chamber comprising a funnel shapedtop chamber portion, a bottom chamber portion, a side chamber portionand an interior chamber portion; an ultrasonic cavitator comprising aproximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being connected to thebottom chamber portion, the distal end extending into chamber interior,the cavitator comprising a piezoelectric transducer to vibrate amaterial at a resonant frequency, thereby generating a plurality ofsheared fluid particles; an inlet tube feeding into the side chamberportion, the tube configured so that a cleaning fluid can passively liein the bottom chamber portion and submerge the distal end of theultrasonic cavitator so that the sheared fluid particles flow upwardthrough the cleaning fluid and across the liquid-air interface, forminga mist of aerosol droplets accumulating in the top chamber portion; anoutlet tube extending from an opening in the top chamber portion, theoutlet tube comprising a hollow lumen with a distal opening above thetop chamber portion for expelling the aerosol droplets, wherein the sizeof the hollow lumen is restricted to control the flow of the droplets ora shutter is used to control the flow of the droplets; and a non-thermalplasma actuator comprising one or more electrodes adjacent to the distalopening, the electrodes configured to generate a high voltage arcactivating the aerosol droplets to form plasma activated ionic particlesfor decontaminating an article, surface, or substantially closed space.In certain embodiments, the ultrasonic cavitator is connectively linkedto a ultrasonic signal generator. In particular embodiments, theultrasonic cavitator is configured to generate aerosol droplets between5 to 5 μm in diameter. One of ordinary skill will understand that theform of plasma science used is not limiting on the invention.

In another embodiment, the distal end of the ultrasonic cavitatorcomprises a piezoelectric disk, and the piezoelectric transducer isconfigured to vibrate a surface of the piezoelectric disk as a surfaceof shearing cleaning fluid. In a further embodiment, the distal end ofthe ultrasonic cavitator comprises a spray nozzle, and the piezoelectrictransducer is configured to vibrate a metallic surface of the nozzle asa surface of shearing cleaning fluid. In certain embodiments, the tubeis connected to housing supporting a container comprising a cleaningfluid. In particular embodiments, the resonant frequency is between 25to 200 kHz. In other embodiments, the spray nozzle produces a focusedspray pattern having spray pattern between 0.07 to 1 inch in diameter.In specific embodiments, the spray nozzle produces a conical spraypattern between 2 to 6 inches in diameter. In further embodiments, thespray nozzle produces a fan-shaped spray pattern up to 12 inches wide.In another embodiment, a plurality of ultrasonic spray nozzles aredisposed in the interior chamber portion. In other embodiments, thenonthermal plasma actuator comprises a dielectric barrier discharge(DBD), cascaded dielectric barrier discharge, capacitative discharge,gliding arc discharge, resistive barrier discharge, plasma jet, sparkdischarge, glow discharge or a combination thereof. In a particularembodiment, the non-thermal plasma generator is a volumetric DBD (VDBD)or a surface DBD (SDBD). In particular embodiments, multiple disks, suchas multiple piezoelectric wafers, can be used to scale the devicesherein.

In certain embodiments, the power source comprises a DC power source, ahigh frequency AC power source, an RF power source, a microwave powersource, a plasma-generating DC power source and a plasma-generating ACpower source. In particular embodiments, the cleaning fluid comprises aliquid. In further embodiments, the cleaning fluid comprises hydrogenperoxide, peracetic acid, sodium percarbonate or a combination thereof,and optionally further the cleaning fluid comprises components toincrease free radical protection comprising ozone, alkenes, aldehydes,or halogens. In additional embodiments, the chamber is disposed within alarger chamber and is connected to said larger chamber by a tubular wallextending around the non-thermal plasma actuator and structurallyconfigured to allow the plasma activated ionic particles to be expelledinto a subchamber in the top of the larger chamber to decontaminate atleast one article placed therein. In particular embodiments, the atleast one article comprises a medical device or animal tissue material.In certain embodiments, the subchamber further comprises a source ofsterilant gas for exposing the at least one article to the sterilantgas. In other embodiments, the sterilant gas comprises chlorine dioxide,ethylene oxide, ozone, propylene oxide, nitrogen dioxide, formaldehydeor a combination thereof. In another embodiments, the subchamber furthercomprises means for subjecting the at least one article to ultravioletlight. In certain embodiments, decontamination occurs using HydroxylRadical Reactive Oxygen Species.

In another embodiment, the housing further comprises a movable cart,wherein the tubular wall, spray nozzle and electrodes extend from anexterior surface of the movable cart. In certain embodiments, themovable cart further comprises means for producing Hydroxyl RadicalReactive Oxygen Species, WFI water or a sterilant gas selected from thegroup consisting of chlorine dioxide, ethylene oxide, ozone, propyleneoxide, nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde or a combination thereof. Infurther embodiments, the movable cart further comprises a metal scrubberbox, a blower and a carbon activated filter, and the metal scrubber boxis structurally configured so that the blower pulls air though thecarbon activated filter, and a scrubber is formed by housing, blower andfilter working in unison. In certain embodiments, the movable cartfurther comprises means for contacting the carbon activated filter withultraviolet light in order to break down plasma activated ionicparticles building upon on the filter.

A further aspect of the application is a method for decontaminating anarticle or substantially enclosed space, comprising the steps of:submerging an ultrasonic cavitator in a reservoir of a cleaning fluid;cavitating the cleaning fluid with ultrasonic vibrations produced by theultrasonic cavitator; generating a mist comprising aerosol droplets,wherein the mist is generated from the cleaning fluid while the cleaningfluid is being cavitated; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasmaactuator to form plasma activated ionic particles; and contacting theplasma activated ionic particles to a pathogen. In particularembodiments, the pathogen is a bacteria.

Another aspect of the application is a method for decontaminating anarticle or substantially enclosed space, comprising the steps of:providing a reservoir of a cleaning fluid; cavitating the reservoir ofcleaning fluid by applying force to the cleaning fluid; generating amist comprising aerosol droplets, wherein the mist is generated from thecleaning fluid while the cleaning fluid is subject to cavitation byforce; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasma actuator to formplasma activated ionic particles; and contacting the plasma activatedionic particles to a pathogen. In particular embodiments, the force isapplied using ultrasonic vibrations. In certain embodiments, theultrasonic vibrations are produced by an ultrasonic wafer.

Another aspect of the application is an apparatus for decontaminating anarticle or substantially enclosed space, comprising: a reservoir ofcleaning fluid; an ultrasonic cavitator, wherein the ultrasoniccavitator is submerged in the reservoir; a nonthermal plasma actuator,wherein the actuator activates a mist generated from the reservoir; afunnel, wherein the funnel connects the nonthermal plasma activator tothe reservoir; an outer tube, wherein the outer tube connects thenonthermal actuator to the external atmosphere; and wherein a mistgenerated from the reservoir can pass through the funnel to theactuator, and further wherein after the mist is activated by theactuator the mist can pass through the outer tube to the externalatmosphere.

A further aspect of the application is a method for decontaminating asubstantially enclosed space, comprising the steps of: sensing apresence of an airborne pathogen in the atmosphere of a substantiallyenclosed space using a sensor; communicating the presence of theairborne pathogen from the sensor to a networked computer processor;communicating from the networked computer processor to a decontaminationapparatus that an airborne pathogen is present in the substantiallyenclosed space; activating a decontamination cycle of thedecontamination apparatus, wherein the decontamination cycle comprisesthe steps of: providing a reservoir of a cleaning fluid; cavitating thereservoir of cleaning fluid by applying force to the cleaning fluid;generating a mist comprising aerosol droplets, wherein the mist isgenerated from the cleaning fluid while the cleaning fluid is subject tocavitation by force; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasma actuatorto form plasma activated ionic particles; and contacting the plasmaactivated ionic particles to the airborne pathogen.

A further aspect of the application is a system for decontaminating asubstantially enclosed space, comprising: a sensor for airbornepathogens, wherein the sensor is in networked communication with acomputer processor; a computer processor, wherein the computer processoris in networked communication with the sensor and a decontaminationapparatus; a decontamination apparatus, wherein the decontaminationapparatus is in networked communication with the computer processor, andfurther wherein the decontamination apparatus comprises: a reservoir ofcleaning fluid; an ultrasonic cavitator, wherein the ultrasoniccavitator is submerged in the reservoir; a nonthermal plasma actuator,wherein the actuator activates a mist generated from the reservoir; afunnel, wherein the funnel connects the nonthermal plasma activator tothe reservoir; an outer tube, wherein the outer tube connects thenonthermal actuator to the external atmosphere; and wherein a mistgenerated from the reservoir can pass through the funnel to theactuator, and further wherein after the mist is activated by theactuator the mist can pass through the outer tube to the externalatmosphere.

Another aspect of the application is a non-transitory computer readablemedium providing instructions for repeating decontamination cycles of adecontamination apparatus, the instructions comprising: sensing apresence of a pathogen in a substantially enclosed space; communicatingthe presence of the pathogen to a computer database; identifying thepathogen sensed in the substantially enclosed space using the computerdatabase; selecting a program of decontamination cycles from thecomputer database based on the identity of the pathogen; communicationthe selected program to a decontamination apparatus, wherein thedecontamination apparatus is networked to automatically follow theprogram; performing the decontamination cycles according to the program,wherein each decontamination cycle comprises the steps of: providing areservoir of a cleaning fluid; cavitating the reservoir of cleaningfluid by applying force to the cleaning fluid; generating a mistcomprising aerosol droplets, wherein the mist is generated from thecleaning fluid while the cleaning fluid is subject to cavitation byforce; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasma actuator to formplasma activated ionic particles; and contacting the plasma activatedionic particles to the airborne pathogen.

These and other aspects and embodiments of the present application willbecome better understood with reference to the following detaileddescription when considered in association with the accompanyingdrawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block flow diagram of a general approach for denaturing abiochemical agent using an activated cleaning fluid mist.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of apparatus fordenaturing biological agents, with the activator proximally located tothe mist generator.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of apparatus fordenaturing biological agents, with the activator located remotely fromthe mist generator.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a third embodiment of apparatus fordenaturing biological agents, with both proximate and remote activators.

FIG. 5 illustrates a streaming decontamination apparatus.

FIG. 6 illustrates a chamber-based decontamination apparatus.

FIG. 7 illustrates a decontamination apparatus for decontaminating aroom.

FIG. 8 illustrates a decontamination apparatus for a heating,ventilating, and air conditioning duct system.

FIG. 9 illustrates a decontamination apparatus for air breathed by aperson.

FIG. 10A represents a configuration of device elements wherein acleaning fluid source 40 and a mist generator 42 are linked via anactuating device 70 that has an adjustable range of rotation of up to360 degrees. FIG. 10B represents a configuration of device elementswherein a cleaning fluid source 40 is interfaced with a mist generator42 that, in turn, is linked to a mist delivery unit 72 via an actuatingdevice 70 that has an adjustable range of rotation of up to 360 degrees.FIG. 10C represents a configuration of device elements wherein a mistgenerator 42 is mounted on an actuating device 70 that has an adjustablerange of rotation of up to 360 degrees. FIG. 10D represents anotherconfiguration of device elements wherein a mist generator 42 feeds intoa mist delivery unit 72 that is mounted on an actuating device 70 thathas an adjustable range of rotation of up to 360 degrees.

FIG. 11A depicts an embodiment wherein at least a mist generator 42 anda voltage source 52 are contained within a portable housing. The mistgenerator is functionally connected to a mist delivery unit 72 which maybe mounted on the housing or is a remote unit. FIG. 11B depicts a mistgenerator 42 and a voltage source 52 contained within a portablecontainer, wherein the entire unit can be hand held, mounted on anotherapparatus, or held by/mounted on another machine or a robot. FIG. 11Cdepicts an exemplary embodiment wherein a mist generator 42 and avoltage source 52 are contained within a wearable container, such as aback pack.

FIG. 12A illustrates the decontamination device comprises an ultrasonicwafer 78 or ultrasonic nebulizer as a mist generator. FIG. 12B diagramsa system wherein a mobile/wireless/remote control device 84 isfunctionally connected to a decontamination device of the presentdisclosure, such as a nebulizer 82. FIG. 12C diagrams an embodiment ofthe system, wherein the system comprises multiple decontaminationdevices, such as nebulizers, that are controlled by a control device 84and further communicate between the nebulizers 82 by wired or wirelessmeans. Information from individual nebulizers 82 can be fed back to thecontrol device 84 either en masse or individually. For example, thedosages emitted by two different nebulizers 82 may start or complete atdifferent times and the data can be reported independently.

FIGS. 13A-B illustrates a similar system having a single (FIG. 13A) ormultiple (FIG. 13B) mist generator(s) 42 being controlled by a controldevice 84, which further provides data 94 to an external sourceregarding the treatment of an area or surface.

FIG. 14 illustrates a system wherein a mist generator 42, cleaning fluidsource 40 and mist delivery unit 72 are further interfaced with a sensor98.

FIG. 15 diagrams an exemplary rectifier for forming free radicals,comprising a voltage source 52, at least one diode/capacitor 102interfaced with a plasma actuator 76.

Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals and characters,unless otherwise stated are used to denote like features, elements,components or portions of the illustrated embodiments. Moreover, whilethe present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference tothe figures, it is done so in connection with the illustrativeembodiments and is not limited by the particular embodiments illustratedin the figures and appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will be made in detail to certain aspects and exemplaryembodiments of the application, illustrating examples in theaccompanying structures and figures. The aspects of the application aredescribed in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments, includingmethods, materials and examples, such description is non-limiting andthe scope of the application is intended to encompass all equivalents,alternatives, and modifications, either generally known, or incorporatedhere. With respect to the teachings in the present application, anyissued patent, pending patent application or patent applicationpublication described in this application is expressly incorporated byreference herein.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meanings as commonly understood by one of skill in the artto which the disclosed method and compositions belong. It must be notedthat as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural reference unless the context clearlydictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a peptide” includes“one or more” peptides or a “plurality” of such peptides.

Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value,and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range isexpressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular valueand/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values areexpressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it willbe understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. Itwill be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges aresignificant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently ofthe other endpoint. It is also understood that there are a number ofvalues disclosed herein, and that each value is also herein disclosed as“about” that particular value in addition to the value itself. Forexample, if the value “10” is disclosed, then “about 10” is alsodisclosed. It is also understood that when a value is disclosed that“less than or equal to “the value,” greater than or equal to the value”and possible ranges between values are also disclosed, as appropriatelyunderstood by the skilled artisan. For example, if the value “10” isdisclosed the “less than or equal to 10” as well as “greater than orequal to 10” is also disclosed.

Method and Apparatus for Decontamination Using an Activated CleaningFluid Mist

As disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,969,487, which is incorporated herein byreference, a method for performing decontamination comprises the stepsof producing an activated cleaning fluid mist wherein at least a portionof the cleaning fluid mist is in an activated state, and contacting theactivated cleaning fluid mist to a location to be decontaminated.

FIG. 1 depicts a preferred method for performing decontamination. Anactivated cleaning fluid mist is produced, numeral 20. Any operableapproach may be used, and a preferred approach is illustrated withinstep 20 of FIG. 1. A source of a cleaning fluid is provided, numeral 22.The cleaning fluid is preferably a liquid that may be vaporized, by anymeans of force or energy, in ambient-pressure air to form a mist. Theliquid cleaning fluid may be stored at one atmosphere or slightlygreater pressure, while a cleaning fluid in a gaseous state usuallyrequires pressurized storage. The source of the cleaning fluid may alsobe a precursor of the cleaning fluid, such as a solid, liquid, or gasthat reacts, decomposes, or otherwise produces the cleaning fluid.

A cleaning fluid mist, containing the activatable species and thepromoting species, if any, is generated, numeral 24. The mist generatorto generate the cleaning fluid mist may be of any operable type. In thepreferred case, the cleaning mist or vapor is fine droplets of thevaporized cleaning fluid. In some embodiments, the droplets arepreferably roughly uniformly sized, on the order of from about 1 toabout 20 micrometers in diameter. In other embodiments, the droplets arepreferably roughly uniformly sized, on the order of from about 1 toabout 10 micrometers in diameter. In still other embodiments, thedroplets are preferably roughly uniformly sized, on the order of fromabout 1 to about 5 micrometers in diameter. In yet other embodiments,the droplets are preferably roughly uniformly sized, on the order offrom about 2 to about 4 micrometers in diameter. Various types of mistgenerators have been used in prototype studies.

The cleaning fluid mist is activated to produce an activated cleaningfluid mist, numeral 26. The activation produces activated species of thecleaning fluid material in the mist, such as the cleaning fluid materialin the ionized, plasma, or free radical states. At least a portion ofthe activatable species is activated, and in some cases some of thepromoting species, if any, is activated. A high yield of activatedspecies is desired to improve the efficiency of the decontaminationprocess, but it is not necessary that all or even a majority of theactivatable species achieve the activated state. Any operable activatormay be used. The activator field or beam may be electrical or photonic.Examples include an AC electric field, an AC arc, a DC electric field, aDC arc, an electron beam, an ion beam, a microwave beam, a radiofrequency beam, and an ultraviolet light beam produced by a laser orother source. The activator causes at least some of the activatablespecies of the cleaning fluid in the cleaning fluid mist to be excitedto the ion, plasma, or free radical state, thereby achieving“activation”. These activated species enter redox reactions with thecell walls of the microbiological organisms, thereby destroying thecells or at least preventing their multiplication and growth. In thecase of the preferred hydrogen peroxide, at least some of the H₂O₂molecules dissociate to produce hydroxyl (OH⁻) and monatomic oxygen (O⁻)ionic activated species. These activated species remain dissociated fora period of time, typically several seconds or longer, during which theyattack and destroy the biological microorganisms. The activator ispreferably tunable as to the frequency, waveform, amplitude, or otherproperties of the activation field or beam, so that it may be optimizedfor achieving a maximum recombination time for action against thebiological microorganisms. In the case of hydrogen peroxide, thedissociated activated species recombine to form diatomic oxygen andwater, harmless molecules.

The physical relationship of the mist generator and the activator may beof several types, illustrated schematically for three types ofdecontamination apparatus 38 in FIGS. 2-4. A source of the cleaningfluid 40 provides a flow of the cleaning fluid to a mist generator 42 ineach case. The mist generator forms a cleaning fluid mist 44 of thecleaning fluid. The cleaning fluid mist 44 includes the activatablespecies and the promoting species, if any. In the embodiment of FIG. 2,an activator 46, schematically illustrated as a pair of electricaldischarge plates between which the cleaning fluid mist 44 passes, islocated proximate to, and preferably immediately adjacent to, the mistgenerator 42. The mist generator 42 and the activator 46 are typicallypackaged together for convenience in a single housing in this case. Thecleaning fluid mist 44 leaving the mist generator 42 is immediatelyactivated by the activator 46 to produce an activated cleaning fluidmist 48. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the activator 46, hereschematically illustrated as a set of microwave sources, is locatedremotely from the mist generator 42. The cleaning fluid mist 44 flowsfrom mist generator 42 and remains as a non-activated cleaning fluidmist for a period of time, prior to passing into a region where it is inthe influence of and activated by the activator 46. These twoembodiments may be combined as shown in FIG. 4, where the cleaning fluidmist 44 is initially activated to form the activated cleaning fluid mist48 by an activator 46 a that is proximate to the mist generator 42, andthen kept in the activated state or re-activated as necessary by anactivator 46 b that is remote from the mist generator 42. In this case,the activator 46 b is illustrated to be an ultraviolet light source. Theapparatus of FIG. 4 has the advantage that the cleaning fluid isinitially activated and then maintained in an activated state for anextended period of time to achieve a prolonged effective state. Thesevarious types of apparatus 38 are used in differing situations accordingto the physical constraints of each situation, and some illustrativesituations are discussed subsequently. Particle and/or gas filters maybe provided where appropriate to remove particulate matter that is thecarrier for microbiological organisms, and also to remove the residualcleaning mist and its reaction products.

The activated cleaning fluid mist 48 is contacted to locations that areto be decontaminated, numeral 28. The types of locations and the mannerof contacting lead to a number of specific embodiments of the previouslydescribed general approaches, as described next.

FIG. 5 illustrates a streaming form of decontamination apparatus 38.This type of apparatus normally uses the general configuration shown inFIG. 2, where the activator 46 is located proximally to the mistgenerator 42. It does not require an enclosure, although it may be usedwithin an enclosure. In FIG. 5 and other figures illustrating specificembodiments of the apparatus, the common elements of structure will begiven the same reference numerals as used elsewhere, and the otherdescription is incorporated into the description of each embodiment.Cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid source 40 is supplied to the mistgenerator 42, and the cleaning fluid mist 44 flows from the mistgenerator 42. The cleaning fluid mist 44 flows through an interior of atube 50 that channels and directs the flow of the cleaning fluid mist44. The activator 46 powered by a voltage source 52 activates thecleaning fluid mist 44 as it flows through the interior of the tube 50,so that the activated cleaning fluid mist 48 flows from the tube 50 as astream. The stream is directed into a volume or against an object thatis to be decontaminated.

This basic configuration of FIG. 5 may be scaled over a wide range ofsizes. In one example, the cleaning fluid source 40 is a hand-heldpressure can of the type commonly used to dispense fluids or gases. Thevoltage source 52 is a battery and a circuit to supply a high voltage tothe activation source 46 for a sufficient period to activate the amountof cleaning fluid that is stored within the pressure can. The tube 50 isthe nozzle of the pressure can. In another example, the tube 50 is ahand-held wand operating from a larger-volume cleaning fluid source 40and with a plug-in or battery electrical voltage source 52. The cleaningfluid source 40 may be pressurized to drive the flow of the cleaningfluid through the tube 50, or there may be provided an optional pump 54that forces the cleaning fluid through the mist generator 42 and out ofthe tube 50 with great force.

Other forms of the apparatus 38 are primarily used in conjunction withan enclosure, either to enclose the decontamination processing or anobject or flow, or to achieve decontamination of the interior of theenclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates the apparatus 38 including an enclosure 56that serves as a chamber in which an object 58 is decontaminated. Theobject 58 may be stationary, or it may move through the enclosure 56 ona conveyer. This embodiment also illustrates the form of the presentapparatus wherein the activated cleaning fluid mist 48 is added to andmixed with another gas flow 60. The activated cleaning fluid mist 48mixes with the gas flow 60, and the mixed gas flow contacts the object58. This embodiment may be implemented either as a continuous-flowsystem, as illustrated, or as a batch system wherein the enclosure 56 isfilled with the activated cleaning fluid mist 48 or with the mixture ofthe activated cleaning fluid mist 48 and the gas 60 in a batch-wisefashion.

In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the enclosure 56 is formed by the walls,floor, and ceiling of a room or other structure such as a vehicle. Theactivated cleaning fluid mist is produced by an integrated apparatus ofthe type illustrated in FIG. 4, in which the mist generator 42 and theactivator 46 a are packaged together as a single unit. An optionalsecond activator 46 b is provided and used in the manner described inrelation to FIG. 4, whose disclosure is incorporated here. The secondactivator 46 b maintains the activated cleaning fluid mist in theactivated state for extended periods of time, so as to allow completedecontamination of the room. The second activator 46 b may be built intothe walls, floor, or ceiling of the enclosure 56, or they may beprovided as portable units that are positioned within the enclosure 56only during the decontamination processing. The decontaminationapparatus 38 of FIG. 7 decontaminates the interior walls of the room,vehicle, or other structure, as well as objects and people therein. Anapparatus 38 of the type shown in FIG. 7 may be used to decontaminate aroom (or rooms) in a stationary home, office, or other facility, or theinterior of a movable vehicle such as an aircraft, automobile, ship, ormilitary vehicle. The enclosure 56 may also be a protective suit worn bydecontamination personnel, to provide continuing decontamination of itsinterior for normal operation or in the event of a leak in theprotective suit.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment wherein the mist generator 42 and theactivator 46 are built into, or temporarily inserted into, an enclosure56 in the form of a duct of the HVAC system. The duct 62 may be part ofthe main duct of the HVAC system, or it may be an auxiliary duct addedto the HVAC system for receiving the decontamination apparatus 38. Afilter 64 is provided downstream of the mist generator 42 and activator46 for removing particulate and any remaining mist. The filter 64 maybe, for example, a porous carbon, low-restriction coalescing filter ofthe known type.

As illustrated by the embodiment of FIG. 8, the decontaminationapparatus 38 may be used to decontaminate air and other gas flows, inaddition to solid objects. FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment wherein thedecontamination apparatus 38 is used in the manner of a gas mask tofurnish decontaminated breathing air for a person. The enclosure 56 isstructured as a cannister having an air intake and an outlet providingair to a face mask 66 placed over the face of a person. The cleaningfluid mist is injected into the incoming air by the mist generator 42.The activator 46 may be positioned to activate the cleaning fluid mistin the manner of FIG. 2. Instead, in this case the activator 46 ispositioned downstream of the air intake so that the cleaning fluid mistis first thoroughly mixed with the incoming air and thereafter activatedby the activator 46. The filter 64 is provided as discussed earlier toremove particulate and any liquid remnants of the mist.

All of these embodiments in FIGS. 2-9 operate in an ambient pressure ofabout one atmosphere or slightly above one atmosphere, all of which arewithin the scope of “substantially one atmosphere ambient pressure”. Asnoted earlier, this capability is important because most decontaminationsituations require the ability to achieve the decontamination withoutsetting up vacuum chambers or pressure chambers. The mist generatorproduces a small overpressure of the mist as it enters the oneatmosphere environment, but does not require either a vacuum or apressure chamber. Especially in embodiments such as those of FIGS. 3, 4,6, 8, and 9, particulate matter may be removed from the contaminatedregion or contaminated gas flow and collected on filters, therebyremoving the carrier medium of the microbiological organisms as well asdestroying the exposed microbiological organisms themselves.

Decontamination Method

One aspect of the application relates to a method for decontaminating anarticle or substantially enclosed space, comprising the steps of:shearing a cleaning fluid into a mist comprising aerosol dropletsaccumulating in a top chamber portion of a substantially closed chambercomprising a funnel shaped top chamber portion, a bottom chamberportion, a side chamber portion and an interior chamber portion, whereinthe cleaning fluid is sheared by ultrasonic cavitation; subjecting themist to a nonthermal plasma actuator to form plasma activated ionicparticles; and contacting the article or substantially enclosed space tothe plasma activated ionic particles. One of ordinary skill willunderstand that the form, such as a funnel shaped top chamber, or factorof the aerolized method of applying plasma activated ionic particles isnot limiting on the invention.

Another aspect of the application relates to a method fordecontaminating an article or substantially enclosed space, comprisingthe steps of: shearing a cleaning fluid into a mist comprising aerosoldroplets by cavitating the cleaning fluid using an ultrasonic cavitatorsubmerged in a substantially closed chamber comprising the cleaningfluid; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasma actuator in an outlettube extending from an opening in a top chamber portion of thesubstantially closed chamber, wherein the outlet tube comprises a hollowlumen with a distal opening above the top chamber portion for expellingthe aerosol droplets to form plasma activated ionic particles; andcontacting the article or substantially enclosed space to the plasmaactivated ionic particles.

A further aspect of the application is a method for decontaminating anarticle or substantially enclosed space, comprising the steps of:submerging an ultrasonic cavitator in a reservoir of a cleaning fluid;cavitating the cleaning fluid with ultrasonic vibrations produced by theultrasonic cavitator; generating a mist comprising aerosol droplets,wherein the mist is generated from the cleaning fluid while the cleaningfluid is being cavitated; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasmaactuator to form plasma activated ionic particles; and contacting theplasma activated ionic particles to a pathogen.

Another aspect of the application relates to a method fordecontaminating an article or substantially enclosed space, comprisingthe steps of: providing a reservoir of a cleaning fluid; cavitating thereservoir of cleaning fluid by applying force to the cleaning fluid;generating a mist comprising aerosol droplets, wherein the mist isgenerated from the cleaning fluid while the cleaning fluid is subject tocavitation by force; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasma actuatorto form plasma activated ionic particles; and contacting the plasmaactivated ionic particles to a pathogen.

As used herein, the term “decontaminating” means acting to neutralize orremove pathogens from an area or article. As used herein, the term“pathogen” includes, but is not limited to, a bacterium, yeast,protozoan, virus, or other pathogenic microorganisms. The term“pathogen” also encompasses targeted bioterror agents.

As used herein, the term “bacteria” shall mean members of a large groupof unicellular microorganisms that have cell walls but lack organellesand an organized nucleus. Synonyms for bacteria may include the terms“microorganisms”, “microbes”, “germs”, “bacilli”, and “prokaryotes.”Exemplary bacteria include, but are not limited to Mycobacteriumspecies, including M. tuberculosis; Staphylococcus species, including S.epidermidis, S. aureus, and methicillin-resistant S. aureus;Streptococcus species, including S. pneumoniae, S. pyogenes, S. mutans,S. agalactiae, S. equi, S. canis, S. bovis, S. equinus, S. anginosus, S.sanguis, S. salivarius, S. mitis; other pathogenic Streptococcalspecies, including Enterococcus species, such as E. faecalis and E.faecium; Haemophilus influenzae, Pseudomonas species, including P.aeruginosa, P. pseudomallei, and P. mallei; Salmonella species,including S. enterocolitis, S. typhimurium, S. enteritidis, S. bongori,and S. choleraesuis; Shigella species, including S. flexneri, S. sonnei,S. dysenteriae, and S. boydii; Brucella species, including B.melitensis, B. suis, B. abortus, and B. pertussis; Neisseria species,including N. meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae; Escherichia coli,including enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC); Vibrio cholerae, Helicobacterpylori, Geobacillus stearothermophilus, Chlamydia trachomatis,Clostridium difficile, Cryptococcus neoformans, Moraxella species,including M. catarrhalis, Campylobacter species, including C. jejuni;Corynebacterium species, including C. diphtheriae, C. ulcerans, C.pseudotuberculosis, C. pseudodiphtheriticum, C. urealyticum, C.hemolyticum, C. equi; Listeria monocytogenes, Nocardia asteroides,Bacteroides species, Actinomycetes species, Treponema pallidum,Leptospirosa species, Klebsiella pneumoniae; Proteus sp., includingProteus vulgaris; Serratia species, Acinetobacter, Yersinia species,including Y. pestis and Y. pseudotuberculosis; Francisella tularensis,Enterobacter species, Bacteriodes species, Legionella species, Borreliaburgdorferi, and the like. As used herein, the term “targeted bioterroragents” includes, but is not limited to, anthrax (Bacillus antracis),plague (Yersinia pestis), and tularemia (Franciscella tularensis).

As used herein, the term “virus” can include, but is not limited to,influenza viruses, herpesviruses, polioviruses, noroviruses, andretroviruses. Examples of viruses include, but are not limited to, humanimmunodeficiency virus type 1 and type 2 (HIV-1 and HIV-2), human T-celllymphotropic virus type I and type II (HTLV-I and HTLV-II), hepatitis Avirus, hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis deltavirus (HDV), hepatitis E virus (HEV), hepatitis G virus (HGV),parvovirus B19 virus, hepatitis A virus, hepatitis G virus, hepatitis Evirus, transfusion transmitted virus (TTV), Epstein-Barr virus, humancytomegalovirus type 1 (HCMV-1), human herpesvirus type 6 (HHV-6), humanherpesvirus type 7 (HHV-7), human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV-8), influenzatype A viruses, including subtypes H1N1 and H5N1, human metapneumovirus,severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus, hantavirus, andRNA viruses from Arenaviridae (e.g., Lassa fever virus (LFV)),Pneumoviridae (e.g., human metapneumovirus), Filoviridae (e.g., Ebolavirus (EBOV), Marburg virus (MBGV) and Zika virus); Bunyaviridae (e.g.,Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus(CCHFV), and hantavirus); Flaviviridae (West Nile virus (WNV), Denguefever virus (DENV), yellow fever virus (YFV), GB virus C (GBV-C;formerly known as hepatitis G virus (HGV)); Rotaviridae (e.g.,rotavirus), and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the subject isinfected with HIV-1 or HIV-2. As used herein, the term “fungi” shallmean any member of the group of saprophytic and parasiticspore-producing eukaryotic typically filamentous organisms formerlyclassified as plants that lack chlorophyll and include molds, rusts,mildews, smuts, mushrooms, and yeasts. Exemplary fungi include, but arenot limited to, Aspergillus species, Dermatophytes, Blastomycesderinatitidis, Candida species, including C. albicans and C. krusei;Malassezia furfur, Exophiala werneckii, Piedraia hortai, Trichosporonbeigelii, Pseudallescheria boydii, Madurella grisea, Histoplasmacapsulatum, Sporothrix schenckii, Histoplasma capsulatum, Tinea species,including T. versicolor, T. pedis T. unguium, T. cruris, T. capitus, T.corporis, T. barbae; Trichophyton species, including T. rubrum, T.interdigitale, T. tonsurans, T. violaceum, T. yaoundei, T. schoenleinii,T. megninii, T. soudanense, T. equinum, T. erinacei, and T. verrucosum;Mycoplasma genitalia; Microsporum species, including M. audouini, M.ferrugineum, M. canis, M. nanum, M. distortum, M. gypseum, M. fulvum,and the like.

As used herein, the term “protozoan” shall mean any member of a diversegroup of eukaryotes that are primarily unicellular, existing singly oraggregating into colonies, are usually nonphotosynthetic, and are oftenclassified further into phyla according to their capacity for and meansof motility, as by pseudopods, flagella, or cilia. Exemplary protozoansinclude, but are not limited to Plasmodium species, including P.falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, and P. malariae; Leishmania species,including L. major, L. tropica, L. donovani, L. infantum, L. chagasi, L.mexicana, L. panamensis, L. braziliensis and L. guyanensi;Cryptosporidium, Isospora belli, Toxoplasma gondii, Trichomonasvaginalis, and Cyclospora species.

As used herein, the term “article” means any solid item or object thatmay be susceptible to contamination with pathogens. As used herein, theterm “substantially enclosed space” means a room, a tent, a building, orany man-made structure that is substantially enclosed and may besusceptible to contamination with pathogens. The term “substantiallyenclosed space” is not limited to man-made structures, even thoughembodiments illustrated herein may be preferably directed todecontamination of such structures

As used herein, the term “sensor” can refer to any type of sensorsuitable for detecting contamination on an apparatus, a surface, or in asubstantially closed space. Examples of sensors include, but are notlimited to, photosensors, voltaic sensors, weight sensors, moisturesensors, pressure sensors, or any type of biosensor.

As used herein, the term “shearing” refers to the process of using forceto fragment liquid particles into discrete groups that move and flow asenergized independent sub-groups of sheared particles until the groupsof particles transition in fluid phase into a mist. As used herein, theterm “mist” means a cloud of aerosol droplets. As used herein, the term“aerosol” is a colloid of fine liquid droplets of about 1 to about 20micrometers in diameter.

As used herein, the term “cleaning fluid” refers to the source of anactive species used to decontaminate an article or substantiallyenclosed space. The preferred active species is hydroxyl ions, and thepreferred source is hydrogen peroxide. The source may instead be amore-complex species that produces hydroxyl ions upon reaction ordecomposition. Examples of such more-complex species include peraceticacid (CH₂COO—OH+H₂O), sodium percarbonate (2Na₂CO₃+3H₂O₂), andgluteraldehyde (CH₈O₂). The cleaning fluid may further include promotingspecies that aid the active species in accomplishing its attack upon thebiological microorganisms. Examples of such promoting species includeethylenediaminetetraacetate, isopropyl alcohol, enzymes, fatty acids,and acids. The cleaning fluid is of any operable type. The cleaningfluid must contain an activatable species. A preferred cleaning fluidcomprises a source of hydroxyl ions (OH⁻) for subsequent activation.Such a source may be hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) or a precursor speciesthat produces hydroxyl ions. Other sources of hydroxyl ions may be usedas appropriate. Examples of other operable sources of hydroxyl ionsinclude peracetic acid (CH₂COO—OH+H₂O), sodium percarbonate(2Na₂CO₃+3H₂O₂), and gluteraldehyde (CH₈O₂). Other activatable speciesand sources of such other activatable species may also be used. In someembodiments, activated ionic particles are generated by passing Waterfor Injection (WFI) through the arc, providing greater than 3-log¹⁰killing of bacteria, bacterial spores, or virus particles relative tountreated controls.

The cleaning fluid may also contain promoting species that are notthemselves sources of activatable species such as hydroxyl ions, butinstead modify the decontamination reactions in some beneficial fashion.Examples include ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA), which binds metalions and allows the activated species to destroy the cell walls morereadily; an alcohol such as isopropyl alcohol, which improves wetting ofthe mist to the cells; enzymes, which speed up or intensity the redoxreaction in which the activated species attacks the cell walls; fattyacids, which act as an ancillary anti-microbial and may combine withfree radicals to create residual anti-microbial activity; and acids suchas citric acid, lactic acid, or oxalic acid, which speed up or intensitythe redox reaction and may act as ancillary anti-microbial species topH-sensitive organisms. Mixtures of the various activatable species andthe various promoting species may be used as well. The cleaning fluidsare preferably aqueous solutions, but may be solutions in organics suchas alcohol. The cleaning fluid source may be a source of the cleaningfluid itself, or a source of a cleaning fluid precursor that chemicallyreacts or decomposes to produce the cleaning fluid.

As used herein, the term “a nonthermal plasma actuator” means anactuator that activates the cleaning fluid to an activated conditionsuch as the ionized, plasma, or free radical states which, with thepassage of time, returns to the non-activated state (a process termed“recombination”). To accomplish the activation, the activator producesactivating energy such as electric energy or photonic energy. Thephotonic energy may be produced by a laser. Examples of activatorsinclude an AC electric field, an AC arc, a DC electric field, a DC arc,an electron beam, an ion beam, a microwave beam, a radio frequency beam,and an ultraviolet light beam. The activator may include a tuner thattunes the amplitude, frequency, wave form, or other characteristic ofthe activating energy to achieve a desired, usually a maximum,re-combination time of the activated cleaning fluid mist. As usedherein, the term “plasma activated ionic particles” means activated OH⁻ions.

As used herein, an “enclosed space” refers to any chamber, container orspace that can be decontaminated with the system of the presentdisclosure. Examples of enclosed spaces include, but are not limited to,any chamber used in everyday to highly controlled researchprojects/spaces, sanitation chambers (such as gynoprobe cabinets), BSC,glovebox, research hoods and clinical spaces.

The present disclosure provides a method of decontaminating an articleor substantially enclosed space by ultrasonic cavitation. The presentinventors have found that the use of ultrasonic cavitation within thecleaning fluid unexpectedly results in a low pressure, low fluid flowmist that significantly enhances kill performance and the ability todecontaminate tightly enclosed environments once the mist has beenactivated. The method also advantageously reduces the complexity of themachinery used in decontaminating processes as no air compression isrequired.

Decontamination Devices

Exemplary decontamination devices/systems of the present disclosurecomprise an applicator having a cold plasma arc that splits a hydrogenperoxide-based solution into reactive oxygen species, including hydroxylradicals, that seek, kill, and render pathogens inactive. The activatedparticles generated by the applicator kill or inactivate a broadspectrum of pathogens and are safe for sensitive equipment. In general,decontamination devices/systems of the present disclosure allow theeffective treatment of an exemplary space measuring 104 m² in about 75minutes, including application time, contact time, and aeration time.Decontamination devices/systems of the present disclosure are scalableand configurable to be effective in any size or volume ofspace/room/chamber/container. Exemplary spaces include, but are notlimited to, clean rooms, research laboratories, production environments,service & technical areas (HEPA filters), material pass-through rooms,corridors and thoroughfares. The decontamination devices/systems of thepresent disclosure are applicable to areas from a single space to anentire building. The plasma activated ionic particles generated by thepresent device or system are non-caustic and silver free. In general,the mist generated by the present device or system moves through anenclosed space or over a surface. Exemplary surfaces that can bedecontaminated include, but are not limited to, safety cabinets, generallaboratory equipment, isolators, HEPA filters, Vivarium caging, anddecommissioned equipment.

Another aspect of the present application relates to miniaturedecontamination devices that comprise a DCV miniature transformer and/ora DCV miniature compressor to reduce power demand and overall weight andsize of the device. In some embodiments, a miniature decontaminationdevice has that may be lunchbox-sized to backpack-sized, and/or has aweight in the range of 10-40 lb. In some embodiments, the miniaturedecontamination device is placed in a backpack, a lightweight portablecase or on a wheeled cart. In certain embodiments, the device comprisesa small chamber system that heats the decontaminating solution to causevaporization before passing through the arc system. In particularembodiments, the device comprises a rechargeable battery operatedportable wheeled system (similar in form to an IV stand-type system).

In some embodiments, the DCV miniature transformer has an input DCvoltage in the range of 6-36V and generates an output of 12-22.5 kV. Insome embodiments, the DCV miniature transformer has an input DC voltageof 24V and generates an output of 17.5 kV.

In some embodiments, the DCV miniature compressor provides a pressure inthe range of 10-60 psi and has an input DC voltage in the range of6-36V. In some embodiments, the DCV miniature compressor provides apressure in the range of 30-40 psi and has an input DC voltage of 24V.

In some embodiments, the miniature decontamination device furthercomprises a diode/capacitor rectifier that smooths out arc convertingprocess and increases the converting efficiency in AC.

In some embodiments, the miniature decontamination device furthercomprises low flow pump with a flow rate in the range of 4-40 ml/min andan operating voltage in the range of 6-36 VDC.

In some embodiments, the miniature decontamination device furthercontains a control module that allows control (e.g., start and or stopthe device) and monitoring of the miniature decontaminating device froma remote device such as a tablet or a phone. In some embodiments, thecontrol module further controls data storage, transfer and printing.

Another aspect of the present application relates to a miniaturedecontamination device that comprises a miniature transformer and anultrasonic wafer or ultrasonic nebulizer as a mist generator. In someembodiments, the mist generator comprises a substantially closedsonication chamber that comprises a funnel shaped top chamber portion, abottom chamber portion, a side chamber portion and an interior chamberportion, wherein the cleaning fluid is sheared by ultrasonic cavitationwithin the sonication chamber. In some embodiments, the device comprisesmore than one ultrasonic wafer. In some further embodiments, the devicecomprises 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 ultrasonic wafers.

Another aspect of the present application relates to a decontaminationdevice that comprises a diode/capacitor rectifier that smooth's out arcconverting process and increases the converting efficiency. FIG. 15diagrams an exemplary rectifier comprising a voltage source 52, at leastone diode/capacitor 102 interfaced with a nonthermal plasma actuator 76.

In some embodiments, the decontamination device has a modular structurethat reduces the footprint of the device and allows exchange of modulesbetween different devices.

In some embodiments, the decontamination device further comprises lowflow pump with a flow rate in the range of 4-40 ml/min and an operatingvoltage in the range of 6-36 VDC or 10-28 VDC.

In some embodiments, the decontamination device further contains acontrol module that allows control (e.g., start and or stop the device)and monitoring of the miniature decontaminating device from a remotedevice such as a tablet or a phone. In some embodiments, the controlmodule further controls data storage, transfer and printing. In someembodiments, the control module allows for remote service andconnection, for recording video or data, and for providing feedback tothe user during use or after use.

In some embodiments, the decontamination device is mounted on a rotatingbase that allows better coverage for the area to be decontaminated, asillustrated in the diagrams of FIGS. 10A-D. In some embodiments, therotating base is a 180-degree rotating base. In some embodiments, therotating base is a 360-degree rotating base. In some embodiments, therotating base is an adjustable rotating base having a rotation range of60-360 degrees. In some embodiments, the rotation is around a singleaxis. In other embodiments, the rotation is around multiple axes. Instill other embodiments, the rotation is in all directions or is a fullyspherical motion. FIG. 10A represents a configuration of device elementswherein a cleaning fluid source 40 and a mist generator 42 are linkedvia an actuating device 70 that has an adjustable range of rotation ofup to 360 degrees. FIG. 10B represents a configuration of deviceelements wherein a cleaning fluid source 40 is interfaced with a mistgenerator 42 that, in turn, is linked to a mist delivery unit 72 via anactuating device 70 that has an adjustable range of rotation of up to360 degrees. FIG. 10C represents a configuration of device elementswherein a mist generator 42 is mounted on an actuating device 70 thathas an adjustable range of rotation of up to 360 degrees. FIG. 10Drepresents another configuration of device elements wherein a mistgenerator 42 feeds into a mist delivery unit 72 that is mounted on anactuating device 70 that has an adjustable range of rotation of up to360 degrees.

FIGS. 11A-C depict exemplary embodiments of the decontamination devicethat are mobile or portable. The depictions are not intended to show theelements of the device in a fixed position within the portable units,rather the placement of individual components as show is merelyexemplary and the positions of the elements can be rearranged to suit aparticular application. FIG. 11A depicts an embodiment wherein at leasta mist generator 42 and a voltage source 52 are contained within aportable housing. In some embodiments, the voltage source 52 is AC. Inother embodiments, the voltage source 52 is DC. In still otherembodiments, the voltage source 52 can be switched between AC and DC.The mist generator 42 is functionally connected to a mist delivery unit72 which may be mounted on the housing or is a remote unit. In someembodiments, the mist delivery unit 72 is hand held, mounted on anotherapparatus, or held by/mounted on another machine or a robot. In somefurther embodiments, the robots are self-navigating and patrol an area.FIG. 11B depicts a mist generator 42 and a voltage source 52 containedwithin a portable container, wherein the entire unit can be hand held,mounted on another apparatus, or held by/mounted on another machine or arobot. In some embodiments, the voltage source is AC. In otherembodiments, the voltage source 52 is DC. In still other embodiments,the voltage source can be switched between AC and DC. In particularembodiments, the mist is dispersed from the unit via high voltageactuation 100. In some embodiments, the high voltage actuation ispersistent. In other embodiments, the high voltage actuation isintermittent. In particular embodiments, the high voltage actuationcharges the mist and further atomizes the droplets. FIG. 11C depicts anexemplary embodiment wherein a mist generator 42 and a voltage source 52are contained within a wearable container, such as a back pack. The mistgenerator 42 is functionally connected to a mist delivery unit 72 whichmay be mounted on the container or is a remote unit. In someembodiments, the mist delivery unit 72 is hand held, mounted on anotherapparatus, or held by/mounted on another machine or a robot.

As exemplified in FIG. 12A, in some embodiments, the decontaminationdevice comprises an ultrasonic wafer or ultrasonic nebulizer 82 as amist generator. In some embodiments, the mist generator 42 comprises asubstantially closed sonication chamber that comprises a bottom chamberportion or reservoir, a top chamber portion 74 forming a pathway betweenthe bottom chamber portion and a plasma actuator 76, a voltage source52, a side chamber portion comprising a cleaning fluid source 40 and aninterior chamber portion, wherein the cleaning fluid 80 that isdispensed into the nebulizer 82 is sheared by ultrasonic cavitationgenerated by a ultrasonic cavitation device 78 within the sonicationchamber. The cleaning fluid 80 is introduced into a fluid chamber orreservoir until it submerges an ultrasonic cavitator 78. The ultrasoniccavitator 78 produces resonant ultrasonic waves that serve to cavitatethe cleaning fluid, which produces a mist of aerosol droplets that risefrom the fluid through a pathway 74. The mist passes through anapplicator head and a plasma actuator, or electrodes 76, where theparticles are activated before entering the external atmosphere. In someembodiments a fan may be used to direct the flow of the mist. In certainembodiments, the device comprises a rotating applicator based with asmall circulating fan. In other embodiments, the device comprises aself-contained applicator that would include air compressor, fluid pump,and transformer. In some embodiments, heating elements heat the spaceinside to spread the nebulized mist. In some embodiments, the devicecomprises rotating heads or nozzles.

The pathway can take any form suitable to direct the aerosol dropletsfrom the reservoir to the plasma actuator 76. In some embodiments, thepathway is in the form of a funnel. In other embodiments, the pathwaymay be, but is not limited to, in the form of a pipe, tube, elbow orcylinder.

In some embodiments, the plasma actuator is nonthermal. In otherembodiments, the plasma actuator is thermal.

FIG. 12B diagrams a system wherein a mobile/wireless/remote controldevice 84 is functionally connected to a decontamination device of thepresent disclosure, such as a nebulizer 82. The functional connectioncan be wired or wireless. In some embodiments, a wireless connectionincludes, but is not limited to, radio frequency, infrared, wifi,BLUETOOTH, or any other suitable means of wireless communication. Insome embodiments, the control device 84 sends control instructions 86 tothe nebulizer 82 via the functional connection and the nebulizer 82 sendfeedback data 88 to the control device 84 via the functional connection.FIG. 12C diagrams an embodiment of the system, wherein the systemcomprises multiple decontamination devices, such as nebulizers 82, thatare controlled by a control device 84 and further two-way communicate 90between the nebulizers 82 by wired or wireless means. In someembodiments, a system can have a single control unit 84 that controlsmultiple nebulizers 82 that are situated in different areas of a room,and/or different rooms, and or/attached to, or aimed at, differentpieces of equipment, such as a flow hood, that need to besterilized/decontaminated. One of ordinary skill will understand thatthe devices may be networked to the control unit individually, orsequentially, or wirelessly, and that the network arrangement depictedherein is not limiting.

FIGS. 13A-B depict a similar system having a single (FIG. 13A) ormultiple (FIG. 13B) mist generator(s) 42 which two-way communicate 92,96, being controlled by a control device 84, which further provides data94 to an external source regarding the treatment of an area or surface.One of ordinary skill will also understand that the devices may benetworked to the control unit individually, or sequentially, orwirelessly, and that the network arrangement depicted herein is notlimiting.

FIG. 14 diagrams a system wherein a mist generator 42, cleaning fluidsource 40 and mist delivery unit 72 are further interfaced with a sensor98. In some embodiments, the sensor 98 detects microbes (such asbacteria, parasites, amoebae, or viral particles), that are airborne orcontaminating a surface. In some embodiments, the sensor 98, upondetection of contaminants, automatically triggers actuation of thesystem.

Another aspect of the application is directed to a decontaminationapparatus comprising: a substantially closed chamber comprising a funnelshaped top chamber portion, a bottom chamber portion, a side chamberportion and an interior chamber portion; an ultrasonic cavitatorcomprising a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end beingconnected to the bottom chamber portion, the distal end extending intochamber interior, the cavitator comprising a piezoelectric transducer tovibrate a material at a resonant frequency, thereby generating aplurality of sheared fluid particles; an inlet tube feeding into theside chamber portion, the tube configured so that a cleaning fluid canpassively lie in the bottom chamber portion and submerge the distal endof the ultrasonic cavitator so that the sheared fluid particles flowupward through the cleaning fluid and across the liquid-air interface,forming a mist of aerosol droplets accumulating in the top chamberportion; an outlet tube extending from an opening in the top chamberportion, the outlet tube comprising a hollow lumen with a distal openingabove the top chamber portion for expelling the aerosol droplets; and anonthermal plasma actuator comprising one or more electrodes adjacent tothe distal opening, the electrodes configured to generate a high voltagearc activating the aerosol droplets to form plasma activated ionicparticles for decontaminating an article, surface, or substantiallyclosed space.

As used herein, the term “ultrasonic cavitation” means the use ofultrasonic sound to cavitate a fluid, such as a cleaning fluid.Ultrasonic cavitation can be applied to a fluid by a range of methodsand devices known to one of skill in the art, including a high pressureultrasonic nebulizer, an ultrasonic nozzle, or an ultrasonic wafer. Asused herein, the term “ultrasonic” means frequencies of sound above theaudible range, including anything over 20 kHz.

As used herein, the term “ultrasonic cavitator” means a device used toperform ultrasonic cavitation on a cleaning fluid. Examples of anultrasonic cavitator include a high pressure ultrasonic nebulizer, anultrasonic nozzle, or an ultrasonic wafer. For example, a high pressureultrasonic nebulizer atomizes liquid particles at a pressure of 50 to400 bar to produce aerosol droplets. An ultrasonic nozzle is a spraynozzle that uses high frequency vibration produced by piezoelectrictransducers to cavitate a liquid. A preferred embodiment uses anultrasonic wafer. In one embodiment the ultrasonic wafer is a ceramicdiaphragm vibrating at an ultrasonic frequency to create water droplets.In another embodiment, the ultrasonic wafer is a small metal plate thatvibrates at high frequency to cavitate a liquid. One of ordinary skillwill understand that the choice of ultrasonic cavitator is not limitingon the scope of this application.

Some examples of embodiments using the decontamination apparatus,system, or method of the present disclosure include shipping containers.For example, a shipping container may be equipped with a decontaminationsystem that can sense pathogen load within, or on surfaces of, thecontainer. Exemplary systems can feed information about pathogen load toparties equipped to receive data. In some embodiments, a system canprint or record data.

Other examples of embodiments using the decontamination apparatus,system, or method of the present disclosure include import, export,travel quarantine areas or checkpoints. In some embodiments, the systemincludes a walk-through space or tunnel, conveyer system, moving walkwayor any other suitable means for moving persons or objects through themist generated by the decontamination system.

Still other examples of embodiments using the decontamination apparatus,system, or method of the present disclosure include a vehicle. In someembodiments, the vehicle is a car, truck, bus, train, airplane, or anyother form of transportation purposed for the movement of goods orpassengers. In further embodiments, the vehicle is an autonomousvehicle.

Yet other examples of embodiments using the decontamination apparatus,system, or method of the present disclosure include space travel, spacequarantine, or structures that do not reside on the planet earth.

Some examples of embodiments using the decontamination apparatus,system, or method of the present disclosure include foodprocessing/preparation systems. In some embodiments, the system includessensors, such as photodetectors, to activate the apparatus. In someembodiments, the system includes sensors for detecting pathogen load.

Still other examples of embodiments using the decontamination apparatus,system, or method of the present disclosure include self-guiding robots.For example, a self-guiding robot equipped with the decontaminationsystem can move around a space or facility, detect contamination via asingle or multiple sensors of the same or different types. Aself-guiding robot equipped with the decontamination system can treat acontaminated surface or space until bioload is reduced.

Yet other examples of embodiments using the decontamination apparatus,system, or method of the present disclosure include emergencybiocontamination rapid deployment chambers.

Other examples of embodiments using the decontamination apparatus,system, or method of the present disclosure include farms, ranches,livestock facilities or abattoirs. As non-limiting examples, adecontamination apparatus or system can be installed in a poultryfacility, such as chicken coops, or a dairy collection facility.

Still other examples of embodiments using the decontamination apparatus,system, or method of the present disclosure include, but are not limitedto, gyms, studios, training facilities, or bathrooms.

Other examples of embodiments using the decontamination apparatus,system, or method of the present disclosure include buildings with adecontamination system integrated into the building systems in order todecontaminate the entire building or specific area of the building. Insome embodiments, the system is integrated into new construction. Inother embodiments, the system is integrated into the automation orventilation systems of an existing building. In some embodiments, adecontamination system or apparatus of the present disclosure isprogrammable or automated.

Method for Decontaminating a Substantially Enclosed Space of an AirbornePathogen

A further aspect of the application is a method for decontaminating asubstantially enclosed space, comprising the steps of: sensing apresence of an airborne pathogen in the atmosphere of a substantiallyenclosed space using a sensor; communicating the presence of theairborne pathogen from the sensor to a networked computer processor;communicating from the networked computer processor to a decontaminationapparatus that an airborne pathogen is present in the substantiallyenclosed space; activating a decontamination cycle of thedecontamination apparatus, wherein the decontamination cycle comprisesthe steps of: providing a reservoir of a cleaning fluid; cavitating thereservoir of cleaning fluid by applying force to the cleaning fluid;generating a mist comprising aerosol droplets, wherein the mist isgenerated from the cleaning fluid while the cleaning fluid is subject tocavitation by force; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasma actuatorto form plasma activated ionic particles; and contacting the plasmaactivated ionic particles to the airborne pathogen.

A System for Decontaminating a Substantially Enclosed Space of anAirborne Pathogen

An additional aspect of the application is a system for decontaminatinga substantially enclosed space, comprising: a sensor for airbornepathogens, wherein the sensor is in networked communication with acomputer processor; a computer processor, wherein the computer processoris in networked communication with the sensor and a decontaminationapparatus; a decontamination apparatus, wherein the decontaminationapparatus is in networked communication with the computer processor, andfurther wherein the decontamination apparatus comprises: a reservoir ofcleaning fluid; an ultrasonic cavitator, wherein the ultrasoniccavitator is submerged in the reservoir; a nonthermal plasma actuator,wherein the actuator activates a mist generated from the reservoir; afunnel, wherein the funnel connects the nonthermal plasma activator tothe reservoir; an outer tube, wherein the outer tube connects thenonthermal actuator to the external atmosphere; and wherein a mistgenerated from the reservoir can pass through the funnel to theactuator, and further wherein after the mist is activated by theactuator the mist can pass through the outer tube to the externalatmosphere.

In an exemplary embodiment, the computer system includes a memory, aprocessor, and, optionally, a secondary storage device. In someembodiments, the computer system includes a plurality of processors andis configured as a plurality of, e.g., bladed servers, or other knownserver configurations. In particular embodiments, the computer systemalso includes an input device, a display device, and an output device.In some embodiments, the memory includes RAM or similar types of memory.In particular embodiments, the memory stores one or more applicationsfor execution by the processor. In some embodiments, the secondarystorage device includes a hard disk drive, floppy disk drive, CD-ROM orDVD drive, or other types of non-volatile data storage. In particularembodiments, the processor executes the application(s) that are storedin the memory or the secondary storage, or received from the internet orother network. In some embodiments, processing by the processor may beimplemented in software, such as software modules, for execution bycomputers or other machines. These applications preferably includeinstructions executable to perform the functions and methods describedabove and illustrated in the Figures herein. The applications preferablyprovide GUIs through which users may view and interact with theapplication(s). In other embodiments, the system comprises remote accessto control and/or view the system.

A Non-Transitory Computer Readable Medium for Decontaminating aSubstantially Enclosed Space of a Pathogen

A still further aspect of the application is a non-transitory computerreadable medium providing instructions for repeating decontaminationcycles of a decontamination apparatus, the instructions comprising:sensing a presence of a pathogen in a substantially enclosed space;communicating the presence of the pathogen to a computer database;identifying the pathogen sensed in the substantially enclosed spaceusing the computer database; selecting a program of decontaminationcycles from the computer database based on the identity of the pathogen;communication the selected program to a decontamination apparatus,wherein the decontamination apparatus is networked to automaticallyfollow the program; performing the decontamination cycles according tothe program, wherein each decontamination cycle comprises the steps of:providing a reservoir of a cleaning fluid; cavitating the reservoir ofcleaning fluid by applying force to the cleaning fluid; generating amist comprising aerosol droplets, wherein the mist is generated from thecleaning fluid while the cleaning fluid is subject to cavitation byforce; subjecting the mist to a nonthermal plasma actuator to formplasma activated ionic particles; and contacting the plasma activatedionic particles to the airborne pathogen.

The following examples are by way of illustration only and should not beconsidered limiting on the aspects or embodiments of the application.

Example 1

In a first test series, identical cultures of serratia marcenscens wereprepared by plating onto filter papers. One specimen was incubated for24 hours at 30° C. in air as a control. Significant growth of thebacteria culture was observed. A second specimen was exposed to a 3percent by volume aqueous hydrogen peroxide mist (which had not beenactivated) for 60 seconds in air at one atmosphere pressure, andthereafter incubated for 24 hours at 30° C. in air. Significant growthof the bacteria culture was observed. A third specimen was exposed to a3 percent by volume aqueous hydrogen peroxide mist, which had beenactivated by passage through a 10.5 kilovolt AC arc, for 60 seconds inair at one atmosphere pressure, and thereafter incubated for 24 hours at30° C. in air at one atmosphere pressure. This specimen showed no growthof the bacteria culture, which was killed by the treatment. After thisdemonstration that the activation treatment rendered the 3 percenthydrogen peroxide mist capable of preventing growth, additionalrespective specimens were tested using 1.5 percent, 0.75 percent, 0.3percent, and 0 percent (“activated” water vapor only) concentrationhydrogen peroxide mists for 60 seconds exposure in air at one atmospherepressure, and incubated as described. The specimens contacted by the 1.5percent and 0.75 percent hydrogen peroxide mists showed no growth. Thespecimen contacted by the 0.3 percent hydrogen peroxide mist showed veryslight growth. The specimen contacted by the 0 percent hydrogen peroxidemist showed significant growth of the bacteria culture.

Example 2

For a second and third test series, a duct-simulation structure wasbuilt. The duct-simulation structure was a pipe about 10 inches indiameter and 10 feet long, oriented vertically. The mist generator andactivator were positioned at the top of the pipe, and a fan operating atabout 350-400 cubic feet per minute gas flow was positioned at thebottom of the pipe to induce a gas flow downwardly through the pipe.Test ports were located at 1 foot, 2 feet, 4 feet, and 6 feet from thetop of the pipe, and specimens to be tested were inserted at the variousports.

In the second test series, bacterial spore strips (each about ¾ inchlong and ¼ inch wide) impregnated with about 10⁶ spores per strip ofBacillus stearothermophilus were placed in each of the test ports of theduct-simulation structure. After testing, the specimens were incubatedat 50° C. for seven days. In the first test specimen series, air only(no hydrogen peroxide) was flowed over the specimens for 15 seconds.Significant growth of the bacteria culture at all test ports wasobserved after incubation. In the second specimen series, a 6 percent byvolume hydrogen peroxide mist was generated, but not activated, andflowed over the specimens for 15 seconds. The same significant growth ofthe bacteria culture at all test ports was observed as for the firsttest specimen series. In the third specimen series, this procedure wasrepeated, but the 6 percent hydrogen peroxide mist was activated by a 15kilovolt AC arc. No growth of the bacteria culture was observed at anyof the test ports. These results for Bacillus stearothermophilus aresignificant, because this bacteria is known to be resistant to growthcontrol using conventional, low percentage non-activated hydrogenperoxide treatments.

Example 3

In the third test series, bacterial spore strips like those describedabove were used, except that the bacteria was Bacillus subtilis var.niger. Bacillus subtilis var. niger is a recognized proxy for Bacillusanthracis, which is in the same genus and which causes anthrax. Becauseof its similarity to Bacillus anthracis, Bacillus subtilis var. niger isused in laboratory testing to study growth of anthrax and its control,without the risk of contracting or spreading anthrax. In the first testspecimen series, air only (no hydrogen peroxide) was flowed over thespecimens for 15 seconds. Significant growth of the bacteria culture wasobserved after incubation of specimens from all ports. In the secondspecimen series, a 6 percent by volume hydrogen peroxide mist wasgenerated, but not activated, and flowed over the specimens for 15seconds. The same significant growth of the bacteria culture wasobserved at all ports as for the first test specimen series. In thethird specimen series, this procedure was repeated, but the 6 percenthydrogen peroxide mist was activated by passage through a 15 kilovolt ACarc. No growth of the bacteria culture was observed at any of the ports.This testing established that this approach controls the growth of theanthrax proxy in the duct simulation structure.

Example 4

In further testing, ultrasonic cavitation of the cleaning fluid togenerate a low pressure, low air flow mist resulted in superior kill.

A 16×16×16 inch box was built for this testing, with the nozzle of thedecontamination apparatus penetrating the bottom of the box in thecenter of the bottom panel.

6-Log biological (Geobacillus stearothermophilus) and chemical (iodineH₂O₂) indicators were placed in the center of all of the verticalpanels. Biological and chemical indicators were also placed on thebottom panel of the box, immediately next to the nozzle.

Activated mist was injected into the box for one minute and allowed todwell for five minutes.

The biological indicators were then removed from the box and incubatedfor 7 days. Following incubation, the biological indicators wereexamined and exhibited 6 log kill of the bacteria.

Although a particular embodiment of the invention has been described indetail for purposes of illustration, various modifications andenhancements may be made without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be limited except asby the appended claims.

Example 4

In an efficacy test, the decontamination device/system of the presentdisclosure was tested against a variety of bacterial spores andgram-negative bacteria (including multiple drug resistant organisms,gram-positive bacteria, mold and viruses. Using procedures described inthe present disclosure, the log¹⁰ reduction of the organisms in thefollowing table were determined:

Log Organism Classification Reduction Bacillus atrophaeus Bacterialspore >8.3 (surrogate for B. anthracic) Geobacillus stearotherophilusBacterial spore >6.3 Bacillus subtilis Bacterial spore >6.0 Clostridiumdifficile Bacterial spore >6.0 Escherichia coli Gram Negative >7.4Pseudomonas aeruginosa Gram Negative >6.0 Serratia marcescens GramNegative >6.0 Salmonella entercia Gram Negative >5.5 Staphylococcusaureus Gram Positive >7.4 Methicillin- resistant Gram Positive >5.9Staphylococcus aureus Bacillus atrophaeus Gram Positive >9.0 vegetativecells Aspergillus niger Mold >8.0 Aspergillus species Mold >7.0Cladosporium species Mold >7.0 Penicillium species Mold >7.0Stachybotrys chartarum Mold >7.0 Trichophyton mentagrophytes Mold >6.0Human rhinovirus 16 Virus >6.8 (surrogate for human influenza) InfluenzaA (H1N1) Virus >10 Norovirus Virus >6.4 Adenovirus Virus >5.8

The results presented in the table show that the decontaminationdevice/system of the present disclosure is an effective broad-spectrumsurface and air disinfectant/decontaminant. It is effective against,bacterial spores, gram-negative bacteria, gram-positive bacteria,multiple drug resistant organisms, mold and viruses. The decontaminationdevice/system is effective for mold mitigation and remediation, as wellas the elimination of bacteria and viruses.

The decontamination cycle discussed herein relates to the conversion ofhydrogen peroxide solution to ionized hydrogen peroxide after passingthrough an atmospheric cold plasma arc. Ionized hydrogen peroxidecontains a high concentration of reactive oxygen species composed mostlyof hydroxyl radicals. Reactive oxygen species damage pathogenicorganisms through oxidation of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Thisleads to cellular disruptions and/or dysfunction and allows fordisinfection/decontamination in targeted areas, including large spaces.

In certain embodiments for direct application onto surfaces, theparticle size for the ionized hydrogen peroxide is 2-4 microns, flowrate is 50 ml per minute, dose application is 1 ml per square foot, withan application time of 5 seconds over per square foot of treatment area,and a contact time of 7 minutes to disinfect/decontaminate high touchsurfaces. In particular embodiments, the solution used is formulated assilver, chlorine and peracetic acid free, which maximizes materialcompatibility on rubber, metals, and other surfaces. In otherembodiments, effective whole room treatment can be achieved in under 45minutes for a room which is over 3500 cubic feet. In such embodiments,flow rate may be 25 ml per minute per applicator use3d (which depends onroom size), dose application is 0.5 ml per cubic foot. The room is safeto enter once hydrogen peroxide is below 0.2 ppm. Treatment time,dosage, dwell time, etc, can be varied to suit the desireddecontamination goals of the user.

In further embodiments, a decontamination system can interface with abuilding HVAC system for room isolation and aeration. Thedecontamination system uses automated equipment for decontamination ofany closed area with downloadable disinfection/decontamination run dataand real-time measurement of injection rates to ensure targetedinjection volume. The decontamination system can encompass multiplerooms and customized specifications as required according to room sizeand usage. In another embodiment, the decontamination system iscontained in a handheld device for use in a life science facility. Thedevice is designed to be used by technicians using a trigger on thedevice to control its use according to the trigger position.

The above description is for the purpose of teaching the person ofordinary skill in the art how to practice the present invention, and itis not intended to detail all those obvious modifications and variationsof it which will become apparent to the skilled worker upon reading thedescription. It is intended, however, that all such obviousmodifications and variations be included within the scope of the presentinvention, which is defined by the following claims. The claims areintended to cover the claimed components and steps in any sequence whichis effective to meet the objectives there intended, unless the contextspecifically indicates the contrary.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for decontaminating an article orsubstantially enclosed space, comprising the steps of: shearing acleaning fluid into a mist at substantially one atmosphere ambientpressure comprising aerosol droplets accumulating in a top chamberportion of a substantially closed chamber comprising a funnel shaped topchamber portion, a bottom chamber portion, a side chamber portion and aninterior chamber portion, wherein the cleaning fluid is sheared byultrasonic cavitation, wherein the cleaning fluid comprises a source ofan active species for decontamination of an article or substantiallyenclosed space, wherein the active species is hydroxyl ions and whereinthe source is hydrogen peroxide and the cleaning fluid is silver-freechlorine-free and peracetic-acid free; subjecting the mist to anonthermal plasma actuator to form plasma activated ionic particlescarried by the aerosol droplets of the mist, wherein the plasmaactivated ionic particles are hydroxyl ions; dispersing the mist by highvoltage actuation; and contacting the article or substantially enclosedspace to the plasma activated ionic particles.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the substantially closed chamber has a side chamber, and whereinthe side chamber comprises a cleaning fluid source.
 3. A method fordecontaminating an article, surface or substantially enclosed space,comprising the steps of: shearing a cleaning fluid into a mist atsubstantially one atmosphere ambient pressure comprising aerosoldroplets by cavitating the cleaning fluid using an ultrasonic cavitatorsubmerged in a substantially closed chamber comprising the cleaningfluid, wherein the cleaning fluid comprises a source of an activespecies for decontamination of an article or substantially enclosedspace, wherein the active species is hydroxyl ions and wherein thesource is hydrogen peroxide and the cleaning fluid is silver-free,chlorine-free and peracetic-acid free; subjecting the mist to anonthermal plasma actuator to form plasma activated ionic particlescarried by the aerosol droplets of the mist, wherein the plasmaactivated ionic particles are hydroxyl ions, and wherein the nonthermalplasma actuator is located in an outlet tube extending from an openingin a top chamber portion of the substantially closed chamber, whereinthe outlet tube comprises a hollow lumen with a distal opening above thetop chamber portion for expelling the aerosol droplets carrying theplasma activated ionic particles; dispersing the mist by high voltageactuation; and contacting the article, surface, or substantiallyenclosed space with the plasma activated ionic particles.
 4. The methodof claim 3, wherein the plasma activated ionic particles are between 1to 10 μm in diameter, wherein the particle size of the plasma activatedionic particles can be varied depending on the ultrasonic frequenciesused or the number of ultrasonic cavitators.
 5. The method of claim 3,wherein the aerosol droplets pass through the outlet tube at a flow ratebetween 0.5 to 20 ml/minute.
 6. The method of claim 3, wherein theaerosol droplets pass through the outlet tube at a flow rate between 1to 4 ml/minute.
 7. The method of claim 3, wherein the mist is formed ina focused spray pattern between 0.07 to 1 inch in diameter.
 8. Themethod of claim 3, wherein the mist is formed in a conical spray patternbetween 2 to 6 inches in diameter.
 9. The method of claim 3, wherein themist is formed in a fan-shaped spray pattern up to 12 inches wide. 10.The method of claim 3, wherein the step of contacting occurs in asubstantially enclosed space.
 11. The method of claim 3, wherein thenumber of ultrasonic cavitators used can be adjusted based on the sizeof the enclosed space and wherein the aerosol droplets are pumped intothe enclosed space at a flow rate between 1 to 4 ml/minute.
 12. Themethod of claim 10, wherein an article is placed in the enclosed spaceto be decontaminated.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the article isadditionally exposed to ultraviolet light.
 14. The method of claim 12,wherein the article is additionally exposed to a sterilant gascomprising chlorine dioxide, ethylene oxide, ozone, propylene oxide,nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde or a combination thereof.
 15. The methodof claim 12, wherein the article is a medical device or animal tissuematerial.
 16. The method of claim 12, wherein the substantially enclosedspace comprises a room or tent.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein theroom or tent has a volume between 5 to 5000 cubic feet.
 18. The methodof claim 3, further comprising the step of pulling air though a carbonactivated filter to collect fluid particles thereon.
 19. The method ofclaim 18, further comprising the step of exposing the carbon activatedfilter and fluid particles collected thereon to ultraviolet light. 20.The method of claim 3, further comprising the step of exposing thesubstantially enclosed space to ultraviolet light.